title: Feasibility and effect of aerobic exercise for lowering depressive symptoms among individuals with traumatic brain injury:  a pilot study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  : To establish the feasibility and effect of an aerobic exercise intervention on symptoms of depression among individuals with traumatic brain injury.
  
  
  METHODS
  : A pre-post single group.
  
  
  METHODS
  : our community dwelling participants (>11 months postinjury) with residual physical impairment recruited from an outpatient clinic.
  
  
  METHODS
  : 12-week aerobic exercise program.
  
  
  METHODS
  : The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression; aerobic capacity (cycle ergometer, heart rate at reference resistance, perceived exertion); Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and program perception (survey).
  
  
  METHODS
  : Descriptive statistics to depict change in outcome measure scores. Answers from the survey were collated and presented as summary statements.
  
  
  RESULTS
  : All participants had fewer symptoms of depression, improved aerobic capacity and higher self esteem after the intervention. High satisfaction with the program was reported with no adverse effects.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  : The aerobic exercise program was feasible and effective for individuals with traumatic brain injury, leading to improved mood, cardiovascular fitness, and self-esteem. Future research is needed to determine the intensity, frequency, and duration required to reach and maintain improvement.
authors.affiliation: Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Marika
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Schwandt
authors.forename: Jocelyn E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Harris
authors.forename: Scott
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.forename: Michelle
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Keightley
authors.forename: Abe
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Snaiderman
authors.forename: Angela
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Colantonio
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D015444:Exercise; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012649:Self Concept; D055815:Young Adult